The Ailey School Programs
Professional Division
Ages 17-25
The Professional Division features a diverse curriculum designed to develop versatile dancers and provide valuable performing experience through four full-time training programs and a Summer Intensive. Programs vary in length and structure in order to meet the needs and educational objectives of every student.
Junior Division
Ages 7-17
The Ailey School’s Junior Division offers a diverse range of dance training classes and performance opportunities for students from beginner to pre-professional. Depending on age, students may enroll in the First Steps Program (for ages 3-6) or the Pre-Professional Program (for ages 7-17). Programs begin in September and run through May.
First Steps and Bounding Boys
Ages 3-6
This program is for the youngest children in our Junior Division Students are introduced to basic dance vocabulary as they develop a sense of body, spatial, and musical awareness, while exploring their own creativity. Classes have live accompaniment and are led by an instructional team dedicated to fostering a sense of fun and joy.
Summer Intensive
The Ailey School's popular Summer Intensive offers students in two divisions the opportunity to study dance in the cultural center of the world -- New York City. A Junior Division is offered for students 12 to 15, and Professional Division is offered for students 16 to 25.
Open Classes
For students and dance enthusiasts with no prior dance experience, the Ailey Extension offers open classes for dancers ages 16 and older. All levels are welcome with no audition required. Separate classes for kids & teens ages 5-17 are also available for drop-ins seasonally.
Preferred Dancewear of The Ailey School
Use code VEBZMG to order your dancewear online
and BLOCH will donate a portion of the proceeds to The Ailey School.
Not sure what's a good fit?
Find a Class or Program to see what level is best suited for you.
Find a Class or ProgramI came to The Ailey School for its exceptional modern dance training. Being among talented dancers from around the world is both challenging and rewarding and the opportunity to train under a faculty of established professionals and noteworthy choreographers is invaluable. And with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater rehearsing in the same building, inspiration is never hard to find! Read More